(S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid
(S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid (CAS 17407-55-5) is a chiral carboxylic acid with the linear formula (CH3)2CHCH(OH)CO2H and a molecular weight of 118.13. This optically active compound serves as a valuable chiral building block in organic synthesis. It is particularly utilised in the preparation of complex bioactive molecules, including cytotoxic cyclopeptides and antineoplastic agents, where precise stereochemistry is essential.
- IUPAC
- L-α-Hydroxyisovaleric acid
- Synonyms
- L-alpha-Hydroxyisovaleric acid

Chiral Building Block in Peptide Synthesis
This compound is a useful chiral building block for the synthesis of peptides. Its specific stereochemistry allows for the construction of peptides with defined structures and biological activities.
Precursor for Bioactive Molecules
It is employed in the preparation of biologically significant molecules. Notably, it has been used in the synthesis of cytotoxic didemnin cyclopeptides and the antineoplastic agent dolastatin 15, highlighting its role in medicinal chemistry research.
Organic Synthesis
As a chiral organic building block, it is valuable in asymmetric synthesis. Researchers utilise it to introduce specific stereocentres into target molecules, crucial for developing new pharmaceuticals and complex organic compounds.
| Molecular weight | 118.13 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (CH3)2CHCH(OH)CO2H |
| Assay | 99% |
| Boiling point | 124-125 °C/13 mmHg(lit.) |
| Optical activity | [α]20/D +19°, c = 1 in chloroform |
| Optical purity | ee: 99% (GLC) |
| Application | A useful chiral building block for peptide synthesis.1,2 Used in the preparation of the cytotoxic didemnin cyclopeptides and of the antineoplastic agent dolastatin 15.3,4 |
| Melting point | 68-70 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is (S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid used for?
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(S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid is used as a chiral building block in peptide synthesis and in the preparation of cytotoxic cyclopeptides and antineoplastic agents like dolastatin 15. It is also a valuable intermediate in general organic synthesis and asymmetric synthesis.
What is the CAS number and formula for (S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid?
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The CAS number is 17407-55-5, and its linear formula is (CH3)2CHCH(OH)CO2H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies (S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid with an assay of 99% and optical purity of ee: 99% (GLC). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the safety and handling precautions for this chemical?
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This compound is classified as a Warning with hazards H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), and H335 (May cause respiratory irritation). Recommended personal protective equipment includes a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. Handle in a well-ventilated area.
Is this chemical suitable for export?
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Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals, including (S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid. We ensure compliance with all export regulations.
How can I request a sample or quote for (S)-(+)-2-Hydroxy-3-methylbutyric acid?
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To request a sample or a quotation, please contact our sales team through the website or by calling our office. Please provide the product name and CAS number (17407-55-5) for prompt service.
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